Security Tech Talk (Steve Kenny, Axis Communications)

Welcome to Security Tech Talk, the podcast where we redefine the future of security. Hosted by Steve Kenny, an industry leader from Axis Communications, this show is your gateway to cutting-edge security technology and innovative strategies. Whether you're in physical or cyber security, this podcast is designed to inspire and inform.

Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of security systems, dive into topics like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, smart buildings, smart cities, security industry regulations and more. Each episode brings you thought-provoking discussions with industry disruptors and innovators who challenge the status quo. From smart city ecosystems to the unique challenges faced by retailers balancing security and sales, we cover it all.

Expect engaging dialogues, fresh perspectives, and expert insights into the trends shaping the security sector today and tomorrow. Don't miss out on your chance to stay ahead in the security industry—subscribe now on Spotify, Amazon, and Apple Podcasts. Your journey to mastering the security landscape starts here with Security Tech Talk!

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by creating solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems. They are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. Axis has around 4,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden. Click here for more information on Axis Communications.

What if the cities of tomorrow could offer more than just a promise of technological advancement, but a tangible improvement in the quality of urban life? Steve welcomes Andrea Sorri to share insights on how smart cities are evolving, with lessons drawn from the established frameworks of European metropolises and new opportunities in the Middle East. They discuss the dynamic interplay between traditional infrastructure and cutting-edge innovation, and how each city, regardless of its stage of maturity, can harness technology to enhance urban mobility, safety, and citizen engagement. Learn how cities are integrating existing resources, such as video surveillance systems, for dual-use purposes, maximizing their potential for public safety and environmental monitoring.

Amidst the promise of smart cities, challenges such as scaling designs and ensuring cybersecurity are ever-present. Andrea highlights the importance of leveraging local resources and fostering innovation through City Labs and technology enablers in rapidly developing regions. Hear about the groundbreaking technologies being installed in places like Saudi Arabia, and why no single city can be hailed as the perfect model. 

About our guest:

With over 25 years of experience, Andrea Sorri is Segment Development Manager Smart Cities EMEA at Axis Communications. Andrea Sorri helps put Smart City solutions into practice at Axis Communications, where he is responsible for key markets. He has globally created and implemented efficient strategies for cities and critical infrastructure. His daily commitments include introducing technology that brings effective benefits to communities, particularly in the public safety, mobility and environmental monitoring areas, with a strong focus on enabling cities to reach their sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Connect with Andrea on LinkedIn

Chapters:

(00:05) Evolution and Challenges of Smart Cities: Smart cities vary in maturity and face challenges in upgrading infrastructure, but offer benefits like improved mobility and safety through citizen engagement and alignment with SDGs.

(10:09) Fostering Collaboration in Smart Cities: Trust, transparency, and ethical AI are crucial in smart cities, with collaboration, dual-purpose infrastructure, and ecosystem-driven approaches being key.

(18:23) Overcoming Challenges for Smart Cities: Smart city scaling in the Middle East faces challenges like cybersecurity, but can benefit from local resources and city labs.

(27:28) Rethinking Smart City Innovation: Smart cities require pragmatic, adoptable, and replicable technology, with potential for collaboration between technology companies and government entities.

Resources:

See more about the Smart City Expo World Congress

Read about the European Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act

Read Andrea’s blog post about using people counting tech to improve transport in cities

See how

Veteran security industry expert Jamie Donald from Axis Communications shares his wisdom on the fast-evolving landscape of security technology. With nearly three decades of industry experience, Jamie takes us through the journey from a fragmented market to a more unified, consolidated one. We delve into the strategic importance of open ecosystems and the necessity of technology partnerships, particularly in video management systems and analytics, to enhance both security measures and operational efficiency. Jamie also provides insight into the challenges and opportunities that come with market consolidation and why adopting an IT mindset is crucial to effectively navigate these changes.

While AI has often been overstated, Jamie and Steve discuss its potential for innovation when companies collaborate meaningfully. The discussion touches on the complexities faced by small developers in choosing between edge, server, or cloud solutions, and how collective investments can greatly enhance the value of technological solutions.

About our guest:

Working in the Global Sales Solutions team at Axis Communications, Jamie is responsible for managing and optimizing relationships with strategic alliance ecosystem partners, to deliver joint solutions for the enterprise business customers. Prior to joining Axis, Jamie worked in the security industry for 17 years, holding a range of sales and commercial roles. This included 2 years Business Development in Saudi Arabia.

Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn

Chapters:

The Future of Security Technology Partnerships (00:00)

Jamie and Steve discuss the industry's shift from fragmentation to consolidation and emphasizes the importance of open ecosystems and partnerships in video management and analytics for enhancing security and operational efficiency.

Exploring Technology Partnerships and Innovations (10:30)

This section highlights the potential of AI when integrated through technology partnerships, the challenges faced by small developers, and the role of collective investments in driving innovation in smart cities and buildings.

Navigating Technology Partnerships and Innovation (21:15) 

Jamie and Steve explore the importance of identifying specific use cases for scalable solutions, address cybersecurity concerns with open systems and the implications of market consolidation on technology partnerships.

Value of Technology Partnerships for Security (32:45)

The episode concludes by emphasizing the benefits of collaborating with technology partners to drive innovation and efficiency, ultimately enhancing value for customers and operators of complex systems.

Resources:

More information on Axis’ Technology Integration Partner Program

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK...

In this episode we are joined by Corin Dennison, an expert with extensive experience in law enforcement and retail security. Together, we delve into the pressing challenges facing the retail industry, including the rise of retail-specific violence and the economic implications of crime. Despite widespread security measures, criminals remain undeterred, leading to tough decisions about store location viability and financial transparency. We explore innovative strategies to balance safety and sales, as well as the importance of accurate crime recording and the role of technology in building offender profiles.

The conversation extends to the digital realm, highlighting the surge of returns fraud in e-commerce, exacerbated by social media platforms. We discuss the necessity of robust data sharing and advanced technological defenses to counteract these threats. Additionally, the episode addresses the controversial use of facial recognition technology, weighing its potential benefits against privacy concerns.

About our guest:

At the helm of Insight Retail Risk Consultancy as Managing Partner, Corin Dennison’s focus is on delivering top-tier guidance, expertise and services to clients. Leveraging a distinguished career in corporate security and retail risk management, he specialises in crafting robust risk protection and mitigation models for retail brands / solution providers and implementing advanced technical solutions. The strategies developed under his direction have been instrumental in safeguarding assets and mitigating significant P&L losses for global companies.

Previously within risk leadership roles with brands such as Burberry & adidas, Corin cultivated a comprehensive security approach spanning six regions. His expertise in corporate investigations, IP protection, and consumer risk was pivotal in establishing global compliance frameworks. Within these organization, Corin’s efforts consistently optimized operations, bolstered brand integrity, and contributed to sustainable business growth through strategic risk management.

Connect with Corin on LinkedIn

Chapters:

Retail Challenges and Security Solutions (0:00:07): We delve into the increasing challenges of retail-specific violence and its global impact, with Corin Dennison providing insights on maintaining a balance between consumer, employee, and product safety amidst the core goal of selling goods. The discussion highlights the perceived indifference of criminals towards existing security measures and the financial strain on retailers as they face decisions about store location viability.

Retail Crime Prevention Strategies (0:09:50): The conversation explores the complexities of addressing retail crime, emphasizing the need for accurate crime recording and the impact of policing thresholds on reporting thefts. The chapter discusses strategies for balancing crime prevention with economic realities and the importance of better solutions to deter crime and protect retail assets.

E-Commerce Returns Fraud and Solutions (0:22:26): We examine the rise of returns fraud in e-commerce, driven by organized crime exploiting online platforms and social media. The need for robust data sharing and technology-enhanced defenses is emphasized, alongside discussions on using facial recognition technology while balancing privacy concerns.

Retail Risk Mitigation Strategies (0:28:48): We address the use of facial recognition technology in retail, highlighting the need for proportionality,